Found In Transition: Chime Edwards On Dealing With Negative Nancys

During your transition you will likely hear your fair share of negativity from those around you; mainly friends, family and co-workers. In the beginning of my transition, I couldn't understand why those closest to me had so much negativity to offer. Couldn't they see going natural was something I really wanted to do and was fully committed to doing? Didn’t they know it was already difficult for me to transition? Why couldn't they be the support system I needed? You may be wondering the same things about the people in your life with particularly sharp tongues. When this happens, it's usually one of three answers. 1. They don't think natural hair is beautiful. 2. They think they are saving you from the embarrassment you will encounter once you big chop. 3. They simply don't understand the natural hair movement.

As I transitioned, I learned that it’s extremely important to have tunnel vision. It doesn't matter what's going on around you or what people are saying, stick to your goal. I decided to EXPECT negativity so when I encountered it I wasn’t completely shocked. It actually lessened the blow.

Whenever someone gives you a reason why you shouldn't go natural or make any negative remarks, tell yourself, "They don't understand." It's just that simple. I know many women who had a friend or family member disparage them as they transitioned. They told them they should relax their hair, but once my friend big chopped and their hair grew quickly, that negative Nancy bit her tongue and began to inquire about how to transition. You will get so much gratification at that point but until you reach the end of your journey, remember one word: earmuffs.

Chime Edwards is an extremely popular YouTube vlogger with over 145,000 subscribers. Chime was also featured in Nikki Walton’s (Curly Nikki) book, 'Better Than Good Hair.'